“Knowledge is power” says Francis Bacon. This underscores how knowledge can bestow an individual with influence and reputation. The power of knowledge emanates from education, understanding, experience, observation, research and relentless learning. However, the true power lies in using that knowledge wisely. As the saying goes, “An ounce of wisdom is worth a pound of knowledge.” This embodies the notion that while knowledge is essential, it is the wisdom that guides the application of knowledge and enriches our understanding with profound insights and discernments. The interplay between knowledge and wisdom is quite evident in the realm of Natural Sciences. The science is seen both a body of knowledge and a process. Scientific knowledge allows us to observe, comprehend natural phenomena, and unravel the mysteries of the universe, which has been fueling technological progress and innovation. People all over the world participate in the process of science. Nurturing the wisdom and joy of science is crucial for fostering scientific temperament and a deeper understanding of the world around us for shaping the course of human civilization.
Until the 19th century, all realms of knowledge were encompassed under the umbrella term “Natural Philosophy”. The individuals, who sought knowledge, asked profound questions and contemplated on the nature of existence, were known as Philosophers. Within a religious framework, they would explore the big questions about life, existence and the divine, and give interpretation of religious/spiritual doctrines, beliefs and texts. They would delve into the deeper meanings and justifications behind religious scriptures, beliefs/practices with science being intricately intertwined-serving the religious pursuits. Disciplines such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Astronomy were all considered branches of Natural Philosophy because they aimed to explain the workings of the natural world through observation, experimentation and reasoning. The scholars who pursued these inquiries were referred to as Natural Philosophers. From the illustrious Aristotle, Archimedes, Aryabhata and Ibn Sina (Avicenna) to the luminaries Al-Biruni, Omar Khayyam, Galileo Galilei, Johannes Kepler, John Dalton and Michael Faraday, all were called Natural Philosophers. Isaac Newton, English polymath distinguished himself across multiple fields as a Mathematician, Physicist, Astronomer, Alchemist, Theologian and Author, was described in his time as Natural Philosopher.
The distinction between Science and Natural Philosophy evolved gradually over time. This was due to the advancements in observation, experimentation, methodology and application of mathematical principles which saw a transition from vague and speculative realm of Natural Philosophy to a systematic and precise method called Natural Science which encompasses the domains of Physical and Biological sciences. These Pure and Basic sciences aim at expanding knowledge and understanding the fundamental principles through, investigation, research, invention, discoveries with the applied science to solve practical problems to meet societal needs. The Physical Sciences seek to understand the fundamental laws and principles governing the behavior of the natural world. These laws describe the interactions of matter, energy, space and time, providing a framework for explaining and predicting phenomena ranging from the microscopic realm of subatomic particles to the vast expanses of the cosmos. By uncovering these laws, Physicists aim to unravel the mysteries of the universe, develop theories that can accurately describe and explain a wide range of physical phenomena.
The beauty of Natural Sciences lies in the fact that if you ask a question to a person in New Delhi you will receive the same answer to the question by another person in New York. That is, the scientific inquiry yield objective results regardless of geographical locations or cultural backgrounds. This does not happen in case of social sciences and humanities. These subjects deal with complex human behavior and societal dynamics, are inherently more subjective and context-dependent. They are always full with bias and prejudices which distorts the data giving varied interpretations of abstract concepts. People argue that certain aspects of life like, success, failures, peace and disturbance, have universal interpretations. But the fact is that these human experiences appear differently to different people which are often influenced by bias. One person’s sense of peace or disturbance may differ from those affecting another individual. It reminds us that while certain things may be universal, the way they are manifested/interpreted can be deeply personal and context-dependent.
We can also ask similar questions in Physical Sciences. For example, do Physicists have a consensus on whether time/space is fundamental or they are emergent properties? There are unanswered questions in Quantum Gravity, Super Symmetry, GUT, Dark Matter/Energy, Matter/Anti Matter etc. Most of the Universe is still a mystery and each new discovery seems to unlock a Pandora’s Box. While it is true, the debates are going on and new viewpoints are coming from the Physics community. The researchers are striving to uncover deeper truths about the nature of the Universe. Looking at the present scientific and technological advancements reflects the remarkable journey of human genius. There are questions for which there exist single, consistent answers. Whether calculating the trajectory of a rocket or determining the behavior of subatomic particles, the laws of Physics dictate precise outcomes. Newton’s laws of motion and Gravitation apply not just on Earth, but throughout the Universe. Michael Faraday and James Clerk Maxwell laid the groundwork for the development of Electricity and Magnetism as unified forces. This represents the richness and complexity of scientific theories. Their universality arises from the systematic study of natural phenomena. This aspect is indeed unique compared to social sciences.
It is our basic duty to familiarize ourselves with scientific facts and reject false narratives and misinformation. For example, it is crucial to differentiate between Astronomy, a science grounded in evidence and Astrology, which lacks scientific basis. Science doesn’t support the idea that distant celestial bodies hold supernatural influence on human affairs and terrestrial events. Astrology, numerology, horoscope is better defined as an art or a craft than as a science and to say that Astrologers are Scientists is misleading. Solar Eclipse is actually is a shadow of moon on earth and it has nothing to do with any religion, demon or any dogma. The Sun doesn’t send any special radiation during the eclipse. While the Sun always emits UV radiations, it is a natural instinct that we usually avoid its direct gaze. During the eclipse, when it is all dark around, the pupil of our eyes dilates, looking at the sun out of curiosity, allows more light to enter, which can damage our eyes. Our students need not to ridicule Darwin; instead, they should strive to gain insight into the theory of evolution and the evidence that supports it. If a mystic asserts claims about Ghosts and close association with Jinn, why doesn’t he/she collaborate with the Scientists to substantiate its validity and earn credit for the significant discovery? This phenomenon has been dismissed as delusion by the scientific community.
In today’s rapidly evolving world, where misinformation spreads rapidly through news outlets, TV channels, social media and other sources, staying informed scientifically is very essential. Science serves as a Universal language, bridging cultures and nations. Nurturing the wisdom and joy of science involves more than just imparting knowledge; it is about cultivating a mindset of curiosity, critical thinking and fostering a love for evidence-based reasoning over prejudice and dogma. Our teachers can play a crucial role in sparking this enthusiasm. Technology is a gift of science, but if there is no development of scientific attitude, it may light up our lives in the literal sense without leading to enlightenment. A society that embraces a scientific mindset is better prepared to confront challenges, welcome progress and construct a promising future for all. This is outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The author is a College Principal